Potential Role of Yoga in the Management of Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Background: Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory spondyloarthropathy with unclear pathogenesis. The inflammatory pain in AS leads to restricted spinal mobility and significant disability. Yoga is a nonpharmacological intervention that has positive effects on various musculoskeletal-related problems. However, its role in AS is unknown. Objective: The present retrospective study assessed the efficacy of a two-week residential yoga intervention on spinal flexibility among AS patients. Methods: The records for 24 male AS patients within the age range 30 to 50 years (average age 38.3 ± 10.5 years) who underwent a two-week residential yoga retreat between 2015 and 2020 were obtained from a yoga center located in South India. Yoga intervention consisted of yoga postures, breathing practices, meditation, a healthy diet, and devotional sessions. Pre and Post data of the sit-and-reach test, blood pressure, heart rate, and symptom score were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: Compared to the baseline, the post scores of the sit-and-reach test, systolic blood pressure and heart rate were found to be significantly (P